Dairies in New Mexico: The Environmental Implications of a New Industry

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Dairies in New Mexico: The Environmental Implications of a New Industry

Author(s)

Fort, Denise

Edwards, Anthony

Abstract

The dairy industry, at first blush, might seem to be an odd growth industry for New Mexico, but the last decade has seen an extraordinary expansion of the industry in the state. The presence of the industry has consequences for the state in several domains, including water quantity and water quality, as well as economics, animal welfare and state finances. This article is an attempt to characterize these implications for water policy and to solicit insights from those who are familiar with the industry.